FISHING: Kate Shelton on the Mid-North Coast

THE Camden Haven region continues to deliver for anglers, with a great mix of beach, estuary, rock and offshore fishing on offer.

Despite some unsettled conditions, anglers have been making the most of the opportunities whenever the weather allows.

Beach anglers have enjoyed the occasional excitement of fast-moving salmon schools, with small metal lures proving the weapon of choice for these hard-fighting fish.

A few tailor have also been getting in on the action, providing some extra excitement for those casting from the sand.

Dunbogan and North Haven have both been consistent producers of bream, with whiting also making an appearance.

Offshore, snapper numbers continue to be strong across most reefs, with plenty of plate-sized fish being caught, along with some larger models on the reefs off Lake Cathie.

Soft plastics have been working well, while traditional anchoring and burley techniques have also been successful. In fact, since the large swell a few weeks ago, we have seen some of the best snapper fishing in years.

Game fishing anglers heading further offshore have encountered increased numbers of slimy mackerel with a few striped marlin hooked last weekend for a great start of the season.

The Port Macquarie area continues to impress with consistent bream fishing from the rocks. From the Lighthouse around Port Macquarie through to Crescent Head, anglers have been enjoying good success on this popular species.

For those looking for a more local option, Rocky’s and Miners have also been producing good results.

Prawns and strips of mullet remain the preferred baits, although worms and pipis have also been effective.

Luderick numbers are holding steady, with Shelley’s and Big Hill continuing to provide reliable opportunities for anglers chasing these popular winter fish.

Tailor fishing has been a little sporadic, with only the occasional quality fish being landed. Mulloway anglers have also found some success around Miners and the Lighthouse, with both bait and lures producing fish.

Offshore conditions have been ideal when the weather has allowed, giving anglers the opportunity to explore the inshore reefs.

Snapper, kingfish and leatherjackets have been among the more common catches, while water temperatures hovering around 19 to 20 degrees are a promising sign for those heading wider in search of tuna.

Overall, the Camden Haven and Hastings River regions are experiencing a productive period, with plenty of options for anglers whether you’re fishing from the beach, exploring the estuaries, chasing luderick and bream from the rocks or heading offshore.

Unfortunately, the weather isn’t looking particularly promising for the weekend, with showers expected, and the current forecast is also pointing towards a wet week ahead.

Hopefully conditions improve as we get closer to the weekend, giving anglers a window to get out on the water before the rain settles in.

For those who do get the opportunity, there is certainly plenty of fish around to make the effort worthwhile.